Liszt: A Faust Symphony / Mephisto Waltz / Battle of the Huns (with Magnard-Symphony No. 3)

The woodwind playing of the orchestra (not always enjoyed by critics) in the Gretchen movement is especially sensitive. Ansermet is direct, honest and conveys emotional intensity without resorting to sentimentality or the vulgarity to which conductors of this music are sometimes prone. The recording is vivid and full of presence.

So too for the pair of Scenes from Lenau's Faust - the familiar Mephisto Waltz No. 1 (this time with the alternative quiet ending) coupled with the beautifully atmospheric 'Nocturnal Procession'.

Magnard, sometimes described as the 'French Bruckner' was clearly part of a group of French composers influenced by the Austro-German school. Yet, his third symphony shows a Classical discipline and poise. This work was recorded by Ansermet very late in his career, at a time when musical byways were far less likely to be explored than today. For many years, it was virtually the only recording of any work by Magnard and it demonstrates how Ansermet's keen musical curiosity remained undimmed by his advancing years. The Suisse Romande perform the work with poise and clarity.